Bermuda youth sailors are heading to Salinas, Ecuador to compete in the International Optimist Dinghy Association’s[IODA] South American Championships.

The team of 6 were chosen after a qualification series of 20 races to determine the top sailors. Representing Bermuda will be Jordan Etemadi, Sebastian Kempe, Luke Madeiros, Rian McDonnell-Geraghty, Tayte Stefaniuk and Leyli Walker. They will be accompanied by their Coach Pablo Weber.

The regatta will pit Bermuda’s sailors against the best optimist sailors from North and South America. There are 160 sailors entered from 15 nations. Veteran optimist sailor Tayte Stefaniuk is attending his 3rd South American Championship and will be looking to build on his 28th place result from last year.

New to IODA championships, are Sebastian Kempe, Rian McDonnell-Geraghty and Leyli Walker who will be looking to gain some valuable international experience and test their skills against the continent’s best. Conditions in Salinas, Ecuador will range from 5-8 knots, making this a light-air regatta.

The team is sponsored by the Bermuda Optimist Dinghy Association[BODA] and team uniform sponsor Digicel. BODA Vice President said Sean Ringsted commented; “We all wish our sailors well in Ecuador.

“BODA is delighted to have such a talented team represent Bermuda. I know the team is looking forward to a competitive regatta and has been training hard under the guidance of Coach Pablo.

“We are fortunate to have the support of Coach Pablo and other partners, including parents and Digicel to make this all possible. I am confident that the experiences and success of the team will further inspire Bermuda’s Optimist sailors to pursue their sailing dreams.